An analysis by the LeadingAge LTSS Center at UMass-Boston and Community Catalyst uncovered disparities in how older adults’ care preferences are considered by health providers.
Nearly three-fourths of Americans aged 50 and older feel that their care preferences are considered by healthcare providers with higher rates among older adults who are partnered, women, higher income or with a “usual source of care.” However, only 52 percent of Hispanic adults and 62 percent of Black adults reported having their care preferences always or usually considered. Meanwhile, 83 percent of white adults reported having their preferences considered, according to the report.
Additionally, among older adults with income at or below $29,900, 66.1% reported having their care preferences taken into account compared with 85.1% of older adults with an income at $75,000 or more.
The full analysis is available here with a corresponding blog post from the Gerontology Institute at UMass-Boston.